Calkins: You want James Rahon on your team (but not on you)

In a sentence that should be enshrined in the diplomacy hall of fame, Fisher told Rahon that he “was still a starter, he just wouldn’t be starting.” And in the 23 minutes per game he has averaged this season, James has often proven himself worthy of first-unit playing time.

Granted, he is averaging just 7.1 points while shooting 39 percent from the field and a career-low 30 percent from deep. But, as we said before…you should see the other guy.

You should see Kendall Williams, the New Mexico guard who was the reigning conference Player of the Week when Rahon guarded him last month and helped hold him to 1-of-6 shooting for the game.

You should see Chace Stanback, the former star for UNLV whom Rahon limited to seven points in a critical win at Viejas last year.

You should see Chase Tapley, SDSU’s second-leading scorer, who finds himself being guarded by Rahon every practice and admits that “James locks me down. He prepares me better than any of our opponents.”

Rahon's career on the Mesa will not be defined by gaudy numbers. But it's worth recognizing that, despite his struggles and injuries, he never shut it down.